Pediatric physical therapists are physical therapists who have further specialized in working with children. They work with babies, young children, and adolescents to provide treatment that improves mobility and decreases pain associated with neurological and orthopedic issues that may be due to injury or genetic conditions. The average annual salary for pediatric physical therapists in the US is close to $91,000 compared to AU$135,000 ($101,207 USD) in Australia. Annual salaries in US dollar currency are similar in New Zealand and Canada at NZ$113,000 ($77,501 USD) and C$93,000 ($72,154 USD), respectively, followed by £51,000 ($59,986 USD) in the UK. Of the countries reviewed in this guide, pediatric physical therapists working in South Africa and India earn the least at R362,000 ($26,483 USD) and Rs703,000 ($10,900 USD), respectively. This guide explains the salary variances for pediatric physical therapists by geographic region, work experience, and work setting.

Factors that Influence the Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary

While geographic region strongly affects earning potential for pediatric physical therapists, work experience and work setting also impact salaries. This guide provides income and career information for pediatric physical therapists.

1. Geographic Area

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in US

In the US, pediatric physical therapists earn just under $91,000 per year plus another $1,600 or more in bonus income. Those early in their careers with less than three years’ experience earn close to $64,000 annually compared to the most experienced professionals with annual salaries that exceed $112,000.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in Canada

Pediatric physical therapists in Canada see annual earnings just under C$93,000, and bonus income potential adds another C$1,700 to total earnings. Newly trained pharmaceutical sales reps earn well over C$65,000 per year while senior level professionals receive more than C$115,000 per year.

Pharmaceutical Sales Rep Salary in UK

The average compensation for pediatric physical therapists in the UK is about £51,000 per year in base salary plus bonus income that can reach £1,000. Those at the entry level earn an average annual salary just under £36,000 compared to senior level professionals with earnings that top £63,000 per year.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in Australia

Pediatric physical therapists in Australia receive an average base salary of about AU$135,000 per year and an additional AU$2,500 in bonus income. Early career pediatric physical therapists earn about AU$95,000 annually compared to their senior level colleagues with annual earnings that are well over AU$167,000.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the average annual salary for a pediatric physical therapist is about NZ$113,000 plus another NZ$2,000 or more in bonus pay. The average entry level pay is about NZ$80,000 per year while senior level pay exceeds NZ$140,000 per year.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in India

As a pediatric physical therapist in India, the average base salary can reach Rs703,000 per year with another Rs13,000 in bonus income opportunities. On average, those early in their careers with up to three years’ experience earn more than Rs502,000 per year, increasing with experience to over Rs885,000 annually.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Salary in South Africa

In South Africa, pediatric physical therapists earn close to R362,000 per year, and bonus income adds another R6,600 to overall income. Early career pediatric physical therapists earn about R257,000 per year compared to senior level professionals with annual earnings that are well over R452,000.

2. Experience

Worldwide earning potential for pediatric physical therapists increases approximately 75% to 76% with experience. While salaries in India and South Africa are lowest among the reviewed countries, the gap between entry level and senior level pay is about Rs383,000 and R195,000, respectively, more per year, representing an increase of 76%. While US salaries are among the highest, senior level professionals earn about $48,000 more per year, or 75% more, compared to those in entry level positions.

3. Industry

Pediatric physical therapists work in private practice, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics. Those who work in for-profit settings may have higher earning potential with larger bonus pay compared to their colleagues employed in nonprofit organizations. Some pediatric physical therapists choose self-employment, particularly after establishing a client base and gaining work experience, which may offer higher earning potential.

Working Hours

Pediatric physical therapists typically work full-time hours, defined as 40 hours per week in most regions. Work hours are often during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, while early morning, evening, and weekend times are sometimes offered to accommodate patient availability. Those who work in hospitals or clinics providing 24-hour care may work more often during these atypical hours.

Bonuses and Benefit Packages

A comprehensive benefits package is typically available to pediatric physical therapists. This often includes healthcare coverage with medical, dental, and vision services, as well as paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick time. Some employers also offer professional liability insurance, allowances for ongoing training, conference attendance, and professional organization membership; and retirement plans. Those who are self-employed typically must cover these expenses on their own. Many employers also offer bonus income potential, though these earnings do not add significant amounts to total pay.

Job Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a much faster than average growth rate of 25% among physical therapists, including those who specialize in pediatrics. This growth rate correlates with advancements in medical care and treatment and increased access to healthcare. To work as a pediatric physical therapist, a bachelor’s degree followed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is required. This educational and training time can take between seven and eight years. Most countries also require licensure and registration for ongoing employment.

Conclusion

Pediatric physical therapists have strong earning potential and receive full benefits and bonus packages, providing a good return on educational investment. Most in this career field work full-time schedules with consistent work hours. With estimated future demand at a very high level, earning potential and job availability should remain positive.